Dragons to become third Welsh side to compete in Scottish Challenge cup
It has been confirmed today that National League outfit Wrexham have accepted an invitation to compete in next season’s Scottish Challenge Cup.
The competition, formerly known as the IRN-BRU Cup, contains club teams from Scotland, England, Northern Ireland, Republic of Ireland and Wales.
A statement from the National League confirmed that the Dragons, along with Solihull Moors, are to join the competition from next season.
The most recent instalment of the cross-border competition was won by now-Scottish Premiership side Ross County, who brought an end to Connah’s Quay Nomads’ memorable run at the final hurdle.
The Racecourse side missed out on promotion to Sky Bet League Two last season, losing 1-0 at home to Eastleigh in the play-offs.
Wales has been represented well since the tournament expanded to allow clubs from different countries to compete in the 2016/17 campaign.
The New Saints reached the semi-final stage in consecutive years between 2016 and 2018, before their north Walian rivals went one step further last time out.
The draw for the first and second round stage – which includes exclusively Scottish teams – took place earlier this afternoon.
The Saints, Nomads and Dragons will enter the tournament at the third round stage (September 7 and 8), with the latter representing England.
The eight clubs from Wales, England, Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland will join the ten Scottish Championship sides, along with the 14 second round winners.
Non-Scottish clubs
- The New Saints and Connah’s Quay Nomads – Welsh Premier League
- Ballymena United and Glenavon – Northern Ireland Football League
- Waterford and Bohemians – League of Ireland Premier Division
- Solihull Moors and Wrexham – English National League
(Featured image: NCM Media)
